Scooby-Doo

Matthew Lillard: From Scooby Snacks to Career Comebacks!

Matthew Lillard shares hilarious takes on his career, including why he dodged ‘Dancing With the Stars’ and how ‘Scooby-Doo’ changed his life!

Matthew Lillard, the iconic voice of Shaggy in the beloved Scooby-Doo franchise, recently opened up about the seismic impact the films had on his life and career. Reflecting on his time in the 2004 flick Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed, Lillard revealed that while playing the laid-back, munchie-loving character was a blast, it also changed the trajectory of his acting career in ways he could never have imagined. "It brought me fame, but it also pigeonholed me at times. It was a double-edged sword," he recalled with a smile as he reminisced about his favorite moments on set with his co-stars.

However, this isn’t just a story about the past. While Lillard is proud of his Scooby-Doo legacy, he remains fiercely dedicated to proving his chops as a serious actor. Recently, he turned down an invitation to join the cast of the popular show Dancing With the Stars, calling it “where celebrities go to die.” Instead, he’s on a quest for more meaningful roles, showcasing his commitment to evolving within the entertainment industry. Lillard believes it’s important to step outside of comfort zones and take creative risks.

In addition to his film and TV roles, Lillard is embarking on new adventures, diving into projects like Find Familiar Spirits. This latest venture sees him harnessing his creative talents in storytelling and connecting with audiences in fresh and exciting ways. He’s embracing the challenge of bringing new characters to life while staying true to the charm and wit that fans adore. Where once he was known for his Scooby Doo antics, he's now balancing the quirky with the profound in his artistic endeavors.

As he explores the depths of his artistic talents, it’s not lost on him that his time with the Mystery Inc. gang paved the way for his journey. As a fun fact for the curious, did you know that Lillard actually enrolled in summer acting workshops at the age of 16 to refine his skills? Furthermore, while Lillard might joke about Dancing With the Stars, he’s not the only one who’s taken a pass on the dance floor; many actors have discovered that their true calling lies outside the glitter and dance shoes of reality television!

For those interested, Matthew Lillard isn’t just a comic actor; he’s also a voice-over aficionado! His Scooby-Doo legacy continues with animated shows and films, where fans can still hear his iconic Shaggy voice. It just goes to show that even as he chases new directions, his past remains a cherished part of his identity!